Restaurant Spotlight Archives:
20th Annual Wing Ding- Posted 8/26/08
The Chicken Wing. Grilled, bbq'd, boneless, naked, spun, fried, battered. It doesn’t matter we all love them. The 20th Annual Easter Seals Wing Ding was was a blast! All you could eat wings from many of mid-Missouri's best restaurants. wings to satisfy everyone..
Cherry Street Artisan- Posted 8/13/08
Cherry Street Artisan Cafe is a locally owned independent arts cafe at the corner of Cherry and Ninth in downtown Columbia. They specialize in the craft of coffee making, fresh food and pastries...
HuHot Mongolian Grill- Posted 7/17/08
HuHot Mongolian Grills, the fastest growing Mongolian grill concept in the United States is a bold, exciting oasis in a desert of cookie cutter establishments.
Boone Tavern- Posted 7/2/08
Boone Tavern reopened their doors to the public back in 1983 and since has continued to be a "top of the mind" restaurant when looking for a laid back atmosphere at a reasonable price.
So you have your normal potato skins and then you have real potato skins...
McAlister's Deli- Posted 6/16/08
"People today crave fresh tastes, quick service and a welcoming friendly atmosphere. A place where they can relax for hours or eat and run."
This is the description of McAlister's Deli on their website and I couldn't agree more.
Bamboo Roll & Sushi
Located in the lower level of the Broadfield Center on West Broadway near HyVee, under a large neon sign, you'll find Bamboo Roll and Sushi- Mid Missouri's newest sushi restaurant.
It's not a boring kind of restaurant. The food at the Bamboo Roll and Sushi is pretty, elegant and tasty.
The Forge & Vine
From the moment you step out of your vehicle and walk up the steps to The Forge and Vine, an intoxicating aroma fills your lungs and evokes thoughts of New York City’s finest dining. Located in downtown Columbia, The Forge And Vine has a distinctly appealing atmosphere. Satisfying even the most discerning pallet...
Simma Down
You'll find the relatively new Simma Down in the healthiest location anywhere in Mid-Missouri. To the right you'll find a tanning salon, a fitness equipment store and an athletic performance lab. To the left you'll see the new state of the art Wilson's Fitness Center. It's no surprise that Simma Down focuses its menu on health...
Kaldi's Coffeehouse
At the corner of 9th & Cherry in downtown Columbia, you can find Kaldi's Coffeehouse. Still relatively new to the area, Kaldi's already has quite a following. Beginning as a roasting company, Kaldi's has coffeehouses in Springfield and the St. Louis area. Kaldi’s is known for hand roasting and blending all their coffees....
Hemingway's Wine & Bistro
Hemingway's Wine and Bistro is quite a find in Columbia, Missouri. If you're looking for that intimate evening out look no further than Hemingway's. They have private dining options for as little as two people or groups as large as twenty. Their knowledgeable staff in the restaurant and in their retail store can help you with all your wine, cigar and dining needs. Since 1997, Hemingway's has been the place for wine and cigars in Mid-Missouri.
Mackenzie's Seafood & Steaks-
Posted 2/7/08
Just off Rangeline sits a new restaurant called Mackenzie's. It's named after the owner's daughter and they "strive to bring you the freshest ingredients, the finest quality meats and fish, as well as the best service in town." I must say they do a pretty good job at it. Filet, ribeye, chicken & duck...
Blue Moon Cafe - Posted 1/30/07
Blue Moon is a restaurant that combines American cuisine with an outstanding Thai menu. The two choices don't seemingly go together but Blue Moon makes it hard to choose which one to go with. Red Curry Chicken...
Cafe Berlin - Posted 1/11/07
Cafe Berlin offers the type of choices that a health conscious city, like Columbia, strives for. With many organic fruits and veggies Cafe Berlin is able to serve fresh, nutritious and tasty food everyday. At the corner of Providence and Walnut you should pop in to see what fresh really means. Delicious patchwork ham...
Heuer's Cafe Sturgeon - Posted 12/6/07
The last trip to Heuer's Cafe we found a great little spot off Route B to grab some fantastic comfort food. This Heuer's location resides in a 72-year old building that also doubles as a country store. As we pull into Heuer's Sturgeon location the parking lot was packed on the eve of deer season. Delicious prime rib...
Bellacino's - Posted 11/14/07
There are just a few places that offer a little something for everyone and Bellacino's is one of those. With locations in Columbia and Jefferson City finding a fan of Bellacino's won't be hard.
Walking into Bellacino's you'll be hit with a great aroma. The smell of fresh baked bread intertwined with warm pizza and a hint of cinnamon. If you were lacking an appetite on you're way here, one whiff will make your stomach growl. Bellacino's uses made from scratch bread...
Jina Yoo's Asian Bistro - Posted 10/25/07
Jina Yoo’s is not just an inspiring restaurant in Mid Missouri, she is also a person. Jina Yoo has spent most of her life as a musician but her greater passion has shown through in creating culinary masterpieces. A great dining out experience is about many different things then just food. Try an exotic Tiger Roll.
Shake's Frozen Custard - Posted 10-9-07
On a relaxing Thursday evening in September, downtown Columbia is full of families, activities and great food. I stopped off at Shake’s Frozen Custard that night during the Twilight Festival.Shake’s, with three Columbia locations, was made for a night like this. Also try Campus Coney's
Addison's - Posted 8/29/07
Addison’s has been one of my favorites for years. Even when there is a 30-minute wait because the “kids” are back and want to have a nice dinner out for their first week in Columbia on Mom and Dad’s credit card. Can’t blame them, Addison’s makes for a great night out. Enjoy a late night happy hour!
The Wine Cellar - Posted 8/21/07
Columbia is a city filled with distinct shops and restaurants that offer an eclectic mix of style and taste. Adding to that list is the fabulous Wine Cellar & Bistro. Located on the cobble-stoned Cherry Street you might have passed the Bistro a few times and not even known it. Don’t let that happen again. Try the blackened gulf shrimp.
Tiger's Takeout & Smokin Chicks BBQ
Well dining in Mid Missouri just got a whole lot tastier. Tiger’s Takeout is a great option for lunch, dinner or whenever you might be pressed for time. Hot and fresh when you want it. Boone Tavern, Chevy’s, The Colosseum, Kayotea and many more restaurants come to your home or office at the click of a mouse. A taste of Smokin Chicks...
Chris McD's
Chris McD’s has been around for a while with great word of mouth for as long as can remember. I was glad to visit a Mid Missouri favorite just a few days ago. Read More!
Sky Hi Bar & Grill- 7/9/07
Sky Hi Bar & Grill popped up in Columbia not to long ago. Both locations are quickly becoming an after work favorite. Spacious, fun and offering a little something for everyone, Sky Hi can become a favorite of yours too.
We dove into the South location on Old 63 and were seated in one of Sky Hi’s many tables. A huge bar and kitchen area is to the right with a pool table and dartboards tuck away towards the back. The bar is backed with a huge rock wall, loaded with several beer taps and a peak into the kitchen. The contemporary look flows over Sky Hi.
Glenn's Cafe- 7/2/07
Our trip 20 minutes west of Columbia took us to Boonville Missouri this past week. We would be dinning at Glenn’s Café in the Fredrick Hotel. Downtown Boonville offers something for everyone, shopping, restaurants, antiquing or just a stroll up Main Street.
The Hotel Fredrick is a quick throwback to decades ago. Black and white marble floors, large seating area in the lobby and a grand fireplace welcome you in. Walking into Glenn’s Café wood floors span the entire dining room while white columns reach to the pressed tin ceilings. Large full windows provide sunlight in and great views onto historic Boonville out. Try the Smoked Crawfish-Andouille Cakes!
Catfish Corner- 6/25/07
Every now and then when I was younger my family would meet up at the local VFW hall for a fish fry. It was always a great time with a big open patio, friendly faces, and awesome food. I may be a bit older and a few hundred miles away from home but Catfish Corner makes me feel closer. Savor the crispy catfish and warm hushpuppies.
Chili's Bar & Grill- 6/15/07
A visit to Chili’s Grill & Bar could elicit arguments on whether Chili’s is a Mexican restaurant. They have a little bit of everything with a lean towards Mexican cuisine. Point me. Either way Chili’s is a fun time out with great food for everybody. Experience the perfect Margarita!
Legend's Sports Bar & Grill- 6/08/07
For many people Legends Sports Bar is a regular stop after work or on the weekends. A friendly environment with a newly remodeled layout and a big patio, what more could you ask for?
Legends has four different area to suit whatever mood your in and dozens of TVs all around. You walk into the bar with high top tables and room to sit or stand. Take stroll to the right and relax in the sun on Legends patio. You can break off into two other spaces, the “I’m gonna grab a bite to eat section� and the game room. The dining section has a number of tables that can be arranged to fit any party and moved easily for weekly karaoke. The game room host darts, a pool table, and a never-ending jukebox. Have a "Pre-Game Pep Talk"
The Zou Pub & Grill- 5/29/07
Days before my visit to The Zou Pub & Grill I was told, you must try the steak. Ok, twist my arm. Within hours of my visit I honestly thought how good can a steak be from a pub and grill? Those doubts kept running thru my head until my first bite, but we'll get to that later.
You can find The Zou Pub & Grill in Liberty Square off Clark Lane. Liberty Square is a newly developed area with a lot of potential. The Zou has a great set up, half seating, and half games. Tall and short tables wait on the right with pool and darts to the left. Flat screens surround The Zou so you don't miss anything sports related. Spotlights not only illuminate the table but also several pieces of memorabilia on the walls. Try the tender, jucy steak!
The Sports Zone & Grill- 5/17/07
The Sports Zone & Grill sounds like a great sport bar. However when you walk in you realize that this “sports bar” has a little identity problem. Sure there are 24 plasma TV’s all over the place but you won’t hear the TV. Instead you’ll hear music as you sit at your candlelit booth or table.
The Sports Zone provides a “Sports Bar” atmosphere in an upscale setting. Newly remodeled just a few years ago the décor inside is sophisticated. A large bar area is up a few steps to the left and the tables crawl across the remaining space. There is a TV at every angle with a variety of sports all day. The eye catcher is the high-def TV that covers an entire wall. Frankly, as a guy, it’s very impressive. Try the crunchy coconut shrimp!
Sycamore- 4/19/07
Walking through The District it’s not hard to find something distinctive. A Place to shop or a place to dine, downtown Columbia offers a lot. One of those distinctive places is now Sycamore at Broadway & 8th. Fresh, creative and healthy.
Farradday's Restaurant- 4/12/07
Tucked away in the Isle of Capri is a restaurant that serves up casual elegance. Farraddays Restaurant offers a world of great food that spans the globe and is waiting for you to set sail. Try food that spans the globe.
Sake Japanese Bistro- 4/5/07
Stepping into Sake Japanese Bistro on a spring evening I was a little apprehensive. Never trying Sushi before I didn’t know what to expect. Everything I’ve heard about Sake has been wonderful and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Try the Hot Sake!
Sophia's- 3/29/07
Sophia’s restaurant provided an exceptional time just a few days ago and I can’t wait to go back. Located in South Columbia Sophia’s defines Southern European cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and laughter can always be heard throughout the dining room. See outstandingly unique art!
Coco Pazzo- 3/22/07
This past Tuesday was the second time I’ve visited Moberly for diner. And for the second time I was more than surprised. Coco Pazzo was an extraordinary restaurant that had every detail just right.
One of the finest Italian restaurants in Mid Missouri had the perfect touch with their décor. Stucco walls wrap around the dining room framing a wonderful arbor that brings an outdoor garden indoors. Italian music fills the air while plants and sconces hang on the wall. Even an antique street lamp makes for an interesting sight. The dark colors and attention to detail create a warm feel throughout Coco Pazzo. Try the unique “Wicker Basket” Chianti
Jack's Gourmet- 3/15/07
On a warmer March evening I found myself walking into a Columbia legend. Jack’s Gourmet Restaurant has been here, in one form or another, since 1927. Instead of a fine restaurant it all began as a rockin’ hoky-tonk beer hall with a “risqué atmosphere”. After many years, recessions, wars, and even a fire in 2002 Jack’s Gourmet still stands as one of Columbia’s finest. Listen to live piano music
Joey's Seafood & Grill- 3/1/07
On a regular Tuesday night I found myself being reeled into a new restaurant in Columbia. Joey’s Seafood & Grill made my regular Tuesday into a great fun filled evening.
Joey’s Seafood & Grill is only a few months old in Mid-Missouri but it is something you need to check out. The franchise was originaly started in 1985 by seafood lover Joe Klassen. He wanted to create a friendly and fun seafood restaurant that you would find in any booming seafood town like Nantucket. Since ’85 locations have been popping up nationwide. Buttery Smooth Mahi Mahi.
The Bread Basket Cafe- 2/22/07
Walking up to the Bread Basket Café you’ll notice it stands out a bit. Doesn’t really look like a café. More like a Hacienda. Well before it evolved into the Bread Basket a few Mexican restaurants occupied the building that have since disappeared. Instead of tearing down the unique site the owners thought why not leave it up and make it excel. Try a warm bread bowl!
Bambino's Italian Cafe- 2/1/07
This is not the first time I’ve been to Bambino's and it certainly won’t be the last. Bambino's has been sitting at Hitt and Locust for years. They have a quaint dinning area and an outstanding private patio that can accommodate any size parties. My party made our trip to Bambino's last Thursday. Try the toasted ravioli.
Beks- 1/25/07
Making our way over the cobblestone streets in historic downtown Fulton I was looking forward to my dinner at Beks. I’ve heard great things about Beks and I was hoping not to be disappointed.
On a street dotted with antique shops and shoe stores Beks found it’s home in an historic 3-story building where old meets new. Try the Chipotle Chicken!
Kayotea - 1/18/07
Finding our way into a warm Kayotea on a cold night was just what we needed. Kayotea is a wonderful slice of what makes downtown Columbia unique and marvelous. Continue Reading
Moe's Southwest Grill - 1/11/07
“Welcome to Moe’s!”
It’s what you’ll hear every time you walk into Moe’s Southwest Grill. I walked in on the last Saturday of 2006 and had an awesome meal. You can find Moe’s bordering the MU campus at 304 9th St. Try a delicious Panini!
Stein House- 1/4/07
An afternoon trip to historic Booneville might be the little getaway you’re looking for. Shop the delightful stores on Main Street and drop into The Stein House. It’s been a gathering place in the heart of Booneville since 1945. Owners Tim & Jeff have transformed the Stein House into a restaurant that reflects the past and greets the future with an old and new style. See an antique Falstaff Bar
63 Diner- 12/28/06
If you wan to re-live the 1950’s all over again you can flip through an old yearbook, put on some records, or just visit the 63 Diner right here in Mid-Missouri. See a life sized Elvis
El Rancho- 12/20/06
Instead of venturing out of Columbia for lunch I decided to make a stop in the heart of Columbia’s District last week to El Rancho. If you ever strolled downtown you most likely noticed the delighted faces in El Rancho’s window or the glowing blue sign that begs for your attention. Watch your food being made every step of the way.
Rick's Americana- 12/14/06
On your way into Rick's Americana be ready to wish for a great evening. With the food and experience you're about to have it won't be hard. Eat a Bourbon Glazed Ribeye
The Pear Tree - 12/7/06
The Pear Tree menu is one that would make any New York or Los Angeles restaurant envious. I will do my best to justify it but The Pear Tree is something you have to absorb yourself. Try Continental Cuisine
Steak N' Shake -11/22/06
Steak'n Shake fired up the grill for the first time back in 1934 with the slogan iIn sight it must be right. Simply put, you can see your food cooked just the way you ordered it. Over the years Steak'n Shake has grown throughout the Southeast and Mid-West including two locations in Columbia. I bet the majority of us have dined at Steak'n Shake and that's exactly what Steak'n Shake is, diner food taken to the next level. Sip a hand dipped milk shake.
Settler's Inn
Ever eat Buffalo at Grandma's house? Didn't think so. I suggest you do. Warm up by the fireplace.
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